What Type Of Calculator Is Allowed On The Sat

Instantly check if your calculator model is allowed on the SAT. This tool helps you understand what type of calculator is allowed on the SAT based on the latest College Board policies.

Is Your Calculator SAT-Approved?

What is the SAT Calculator Policy?

The SAT calculator policy defines the rules for using a calculator on the Math section of the test. The College Board sets these rules to ensure fairness and prevent any student from having an unfair advantage. Understanding what type of calculator is allowed on the SAT is critical for test day success. While students can bring their own approved calculator, the digital SAT also includes an embedded Desmos graphing calculator. You are only allowed to use a calculator on the Math section; it must be put away during the Reading and Writing section.

SAT Calculator Rules Explained

The policy isn’t just about specific models, but about features. A calculator is prohibited if it has functions that undermine the test’s integrity. The core principle is that the calculator should be a tool for computation, not for solving problems symbolically or accessing external information. A recent major update to the policy banned all calculators with a Computer Algebra System (CAS).

Prohibited vs. Permitted Features

The “formula” for an acceptable calculator is simple: it must not have any features from the prohibited list. Here’s a breakdown of the key variables:

Key factors determining if a calculator is allowed on the SAT.

Feature (Variable)	Meaning	SAT Policy Status	Typical Range / Examples
Computer Algebra System (CAS)	Can manipulate algebraic expressions symbolically (e.g., factor, solve for x).	Not Allowed	TI-89, TI-Nspire CAS, HP Prime
Graphing Capability	Can plot equations on a coordinate plane.	Allowed	TI-84 Plus, Casio fx-9750GII
QWERTY Keyboard	A typewriter-style keyboard.	Not Allowed	Any device with a text keyboard
Wireless Connectivity	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, or infrared data ports.	Not Allowed	Smartphones, smartwatches, tablets
Power Source	How the calculator is powered.	Battery-Only	Calculators needing an outlet are banned.

Practical Examples

Example 1: A Clearly Allowed Calculator

• Inputs: Model: “Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE”, No prohibited features checked.
• Result: ALLOWED.
• Reasoning: The TI-84 Plus series is one of the most common and explicitly permitted graphing calculators. It does not have a CAS or any other banned feature.

Example 2: A Clearly Banned Calculator

• Inputs: Model: “TI-89 Titanium” OR Has CAS checkbox is checked.
• Result: NOT ALLOWED.
• Reasoning: The TI-89 series is explicitly banned because it features a powerful Computer Algebra System (CAS), which gives an unfair advantage in solving algebraic problems. If you’re looking for an alternative, check out this guide on the best calculators for the SAT.

Example 3: An Unlisted Scientific Calculator

• Inputs: Model: “Casio fx-115ES PLUS”, No prohibited features checked.
• Result: ALLOWED.
• Reasoning: While not a graphing calculator, all scientific calculators are permitted as long as they don’t have prohibited features. The fx-115ES PLUS is a standard scientific calculator and is perfectly acceptable. For more details on test day, see our Digital SAT Guide.

How to Use This SAT Calculator Checker

Using this tool is a simple, two-step process to determine what type of calculator is allowed on the SAT.

1. Enter Your Model: Type the model name of your calculator into the input field. Be as precise as possible.
2. Review Features: Look at your calculator and check the box next to any feature it has from the list. The most important one is the CAS feature.
3. Interpret the Results: The tool will instantly provide one of three results: Allowed, Not Allowed, or Likely Allowed (if your model is obscure but has no banned features).

Key Factors That Affect Calculator Approval

• CAS Functionality: This is the most significant disqualifying factor. If your calculator model has “CAS” in the name, it’s banned.
• Hardware Modifications: Any modification that adds memory, wireless capability, or other banned features will disqualify a calculator.
• Power Source: Only battery-operated calculators are allowed. You cannot bring a power cord.
• Noise and Printing: Calculators that make noise or print to paper tape are disruptive and not permitted.
• Communication: Any ability to communicate with other devices (infrared, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) is strictly forbidden. If your calculator has an infrared port, you must cover it with opaque tape.
• Prohibited Models List: The College Board maintains a list of specific models that are not allowed, primarily due to having a CAS. This includes the TI-89, TI-92, and HP Prime series. The rules are different from other tests, so be sure to review our ACT Calculator Rules if you are taking that exam as well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Are all graphing calculators allowed on the SAT?

No. Most graphing calculators are allowed, but any model with a Computer Algebra System (CAS) is strictly prohibited. The TI-Nspire CX is allowed, but the TI-Nspire CX CAS is not.

2. What if my calculator isn’t on any official list?

If your calculator is not explicitly listed as banned and does not have any of the prohibited features (like CAS, QWERTY keyboard, wireless), it is almost certainly allowed.

3. Can I use my phone’s calculator app?

Absolutely not. Phones, smartwatches, tablets, and laptops are banned from the testing room.

4. Do I need a graphing calculator for the SAT?

No, it is not required. All questions can be solved without a calculator. However, a graphing or scientific calculator is highly recommended and can save significant time on the Math section.

5. What is a Computer Algebra System (CAS)?

A CAS is a sophisticated program that can solve algebraic equations, factor polynomials, and perform other symbolic manipulations. Standard calculators give numeric answers (e.g., 2.5), while a CAS can give symbolic answers (e.g., 5/2 or x = 2y).

6. What happens if I bring a banned calculator?

You will not be allowed to use it. If you are caught using it during the test, you will be dismissed and your scores will be canceled.

7. Does the digital SAT provide a calculator?

Yes. The Bluebook testing application for the digital SAT has a built-in Desmos graphing calculator that you can use for the entire Math section.

8. Is the TI-84 Plus CE allowed on the SAT?

Yes, the TI-84 Plus CE is one of the most popular and fully approved calculators for the SAT. It does not have CAS functionality.

Related Tools and Internal Resources

Preparing for college entrance exams involves more than just knowing what type of calculator is allowed on the SAT. Explore our other resources to get fully prepared: